A Simple Home Maintenance Checklist by Season

Most home repairs are cheaper when they are small. A loose gutter, a dirty filter or a cracked seal is easy to fix early and expensive to fix late. A seasonal routine keeps the job small: a short list four times a year, plus a few quick checks every month.

Spring: after the cold

Spring is the time to look for winter damage. Walk around the outside of the house and look at the roof, gutters, siding and foundation. Clean the gutters, check the screens, and test the outdoor faucets. Have the air conditioner serviced before the first hot day, and check that the dryer vent is clear.

Summer: keep things running

Summer is a good season for outdoor jobs. Trim trees and shrubs away from the house, check the deck for loose boards, and look for signs of pests. Replace the air filter, flush the water heater, and check the caulk around tubs and sinks. Test the garage door safety reverse by placing a board under the door.

Fall: get ready for the cold

In fall, clean the gutters once the leaves have dropped, and drain the outdoor hoses before the first freeze. Book a furnace check, seal gaps around windows and doors, and check the chimney if you use a fireplace. Store outdoor furniture and check the snow tools.

Winter: protect the pipes and watch the roof

Know where the main water shutoff is, so you can act quickly if a pipe freezes. Check pipes in cold spaces, clear snow from vents and exhaust pipes, and look for ice dams or leaks. Keep up with the air filter, and test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Monthly checks

• Check the air filter and replace it when it is dirty.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
• Look under sinks for leaks and drips.
• Run water in rarely used drains.
• Look at ceilings and walls for new stains.

Keep a log

A simple log of what you fixed, when and who did it saves time later. Write down appliance model numbers and warranty dates, and keep your plumber, electrician and other contacts on one page. When something breaks, you will know where to look.

Tips that help

• Pick one weekend each season and put it on the calendar.
• Do the outdoor jobs first, while the weather is good.
• Keep a small basket of supplies: filters, batteries, a flashlight and a few tools.
• Cross out any job that does not apply to your home.

This is a general guide and not a professional inspection. For gas, electrical and structural questions, ask a qualified professional.

Printable checklists

Our Home Maintenance and Moving Checklists include all four seasonal lists, a monthly checklist, an appliance log, a filter tracker, service contacts and a full moving plan. Print a few pages first with the free home maintenance and moving sample.

You can also browse every free sample on the Free Printables page, or see all digital downloads.